Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a by-product of
incomplete combustion. Carbon monoxide is known
as the "silent killer" because it is
colorless, odorless and tasteless; and since the
symptoms of exposure are very similar to those of
a cold or flu (headache, nausea, fatigue, etc.)
carbon monoxide problems may go undetected until
it is too late. Answering the following questions
may help to differentiate between the flu and CO
exposure:

Are you experiencing the symptoms
described above?

Do your symptoms go away or decrease when
you leave the building and come back when
you return?

Does anyone else complain of the same
symptoms? If so, did the symptoms appear
at about the same time?

Do you have a CO alarm? If so, is it
going off?

Are you using any fuel-burning appliances
or equipment?

When was the last time you had your
combustion appliances inspected? Are you certain
they are working properly?

If you have reason to believe that you have
been exposed to CO, take it very seriously: get
fresh air immediately, see a doctor and have your
combustion appliances checked by a professional
before returning to the building.

There are two essential ways to protect
against possible CO exposure. First, install and
maintain CO detectors in your home. Some experts
recommend having a detector on each floor of your
home and placing them near rooms where people
sleep. Second, have all combustion appliances
regularly maintained by a professional. In
addition, don't idle you car in a garage, don't
use a gas oven to heat your home even for a short
period, don't use charcoal grills inside, and
don't operate gas-powered engines (lawn mower,
chain saw, snow blower, etc.) in enclosed spaces.